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Art Exhibits/Openings
Lyme Art Association, 90 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, CT
The Lyme Art Association’s annual show and sale featuring more than 200 works of art in all sizes and mediums by member artists. Opening reception on November 23rd, 5-7 pm. 10 percent off on Black Friday (November 23) and at the opening reception.
Art Gallery at the Mill House, 5 Main Street, Chester, CT
, 06412
Celebrate with us! Our 10th Anniversary Exhibition features the Odyssey Painters. Sharing an interest in painting outdoors, this group of plein air painters gathers throughout the changing seasons. From the rolling Lyme hillsides to the Connecticut shoreline, we have put together a collection of fine art for your viewing pleasure.
The Essex Library, 33 West Avenue, Essex, CT
, 06426
Joan Wallace, a resident of Centerbrook, will display representational paintings in oil at the Essex Library during the month of December. She is a member of the Lyme, Clinton, and Madison Art Associations, and has studied under distinguished painters including Hollis Dunlap, Diane Aeschliman, Jack Broderick and Jack Montmeat. The exhibit is open during the Library’s regular hours. The Essex Library is at 33 West Avenue. For more information, please call 860-767-1560.
Alexey von Schlippe Gallery of Art, 1084 Shennecossett Rd. UConn, Avery Point, Groton, CT
, 06340
opening reception 5-8 p.m. Nov. 2; an exhibition featuring the work of four artists:mixed media pieces by Geoffrey Detrani of Hamden; a multi media installation by Pamela Pike Gordinier of Stonington; Oil paintings by Leonardo Severo of Cuba and Miami; and an Environmental Sculptural installation by Jeffrey Slomba of West Haven, winner of the 2011 Sea Grant Art Award. This Exhibition runs through Dec.16th. Open noon to 4 p.m. Wed. through Sun.
Old Lyme Phoebe Griffin Noyes Library, 2 Library lane, Old Lyme, CT
, 06371
for young children and their families; free; stuffed animals and blankies welcome; registration required; 434-1684
Lyme Art Association, 90 Lyme Street, Old Lyme, CT
The Lyme Art Association’s annual show and sale, Deck the Walls and Work by Newly Elected Artists, featuring more than 200 works of art in all sizes and mediums by member artists; On View: November 16 to January 5, 2013
Opening Reception: Friday, November 23, 5 - 7pm
Guilford Art Center, 411 Church Street, Guilford, CT
, 06437
Handmade crafts by more than 300 artists from across the country are featured, including ceramics, glass, jewelry, fiber, ornaments, toys, specialty foods, and more. More than 80 new artists join the event this year. Proceeds benefit the exhibiting artists and Guilford Art Center’s educational and community programs. Artistry hours are Monday through Sunday 10am-6pm, Thursday 10am-8pm.
Lyman Allyn Art Museum, 625 Williams Street, New London, CT
the original artwork of James Gurney, the author and illustrator of Dinotopia, an illustrated book series that tells the story of an island where humans and sentient dinosaurs live together in harmony.
On view through February 2, the exhibition brings together paintings from Gurney’s well-loved books A Land Apart From Time, The World Beneath, Journey to Chandara, and First Flight, along with sketches and maquettes from Gurney’s studio. Dinosaur specimens from the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History, including a Deinonychus skull and a Tyrannosaurus tooth, will complement the paintings and illuminate the science behind Gurney’s art. Related events throughout the months
Spirit Gallery Tattoo, 207 Bank Street, New London, CT
, 06320
A solo exhibit by artist Ashleigh Kay at Spirit Gallery Tattoo in New London! Come join the artist on Saturday, December 1st for the opening reception from 6-8pm. "CHROMAPHILIA" is all new work made fresh in 2012 with the concept based on the artist's obsessive love for color. The exhibit will be on display thru January 2013.
All artwork will be available for purchase, but will have to remain on display for the duration of the exhibit. Hours for Spirit Gallery Tattoo can be found at www.SpiritGalleryTattoo.com
A preview of the artwork can be found at: www.AshleighKay.com
Author Events
Olde Mistick Village, Coogan Blvd, Mystic, CT
Fly By Night Comedy Jugglers; Festive Brass; The Fabulous Stilt-walking Santa – roaming costumed characters; hayrides; (860) 536-4941.
R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Road, Madison, CT
The first book to combine an authoritative history of the entire Star Trek franchise (including all 6 television series and 11 feature films), Star Trek: The Complete Unauthorized History is packed with stories and anecdotes from those who helped shape it from the outside in: you... the fans! Star Trek expert, Robert Greenberger covers everything from show creator Gene Roddenberry's initial plans for a series combining sci-fi and Western elements, the premiere of the original series in 1966 and its cancellation, the franchise's return to an animated series, and the blockbuster J.J. Abrams films.
RJ Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Road, Madison, CT
Author of Star Trek: The Complete Unauthorized History. Free. Registration required.
Community
Jazzercise Center of Niantic, 11-C Freedom Way, Niantic, CT , 06357
Jazzercise Benefit for Connecticut Breast Health Initiative. Open House, Silent Auction, and Raffle. Doors open at 10 AM with drawing and end of Silent Auction at Noon. Items are currently on display at the Jazzercise Center in Niantic. Winners need not be present at drawings.
Mystic Seaport, 75 Greenmanville Ave., Mystic, CT
through Dec. 30. Tours start every 15 minutes.Tickets are $30 for adults and $23 for children ages 4 to 17 the day of the tour. Discounts are available for Seaport members and advance purchase, which is highly recommended by visiting mysticseaport.org or calling (860) 572-5302 or (888) 973-2767
Camp Harkness, 301 Great Neck Road, Waterford, CT
10 a.m., limited class size; bring a towel, water and yoga mat; teenagers to seniors welcome; Wednesdays at 6 p.m. and Saturdays at 10 a.m. through mid-December; $5 pp; runs for 10-weeks; call to sign up (860) 460-8732.
Dudley Farm, 2351 Durham Rd., Guilford, CT , 06443
The Dudley Farm Farmers' Market will hold its 17th annual Holiday Market on Saturday, December 1, from 9 AM to 2 PM in the Munger Barn. Our holiday treats and treasures feature baked goods, art and crafts, eggs, fibers, fresh holiday greens and trees, honey and maple syrup, jams and jellies, naturally-raised meats, pickles, and soap.
Oswegatchie Elementary School, 470 Boston Post Road, Waterford, CT , 06385
The Carelot PTO presents its 5th Annual One Stop Holiday Shopping!
Come shop with Local Crafters:
Somaly Hay and Co, Tastefully Simple, JW Crafts,
Sunshine and Sass, Pampered Chef, Lia Sophia, Thirty
One Gifts, Be Dazzling, Dress 'ems, Serendipities,
Celadon Road, Saw Scroll Works, Never Enough
Handbags and Scentsy, Arbonne, Mary Kay,
Tupperware, Longerberger and SO MUCH MORE!!
Bake Sale ~ Lunch
Children’s Craft area–
Tattoos– Face Painting
Pictures with Mrs. Claus
Save time and Money by not running from store to store! You are sure to find something for everyone on your list!!!
Versailles United Methodist Church, 4 Church St., Versailles, CT , 06383
$6; the 1st Sat. of every month; (860) 822-9439.
North Haven Fairgrounds, 290 Washington Avenue, North Haven, CT
, 06473
Venturing Crew 007, sponsored by the North Haven Fair, will be collecting toys for Toys For Tots at the North Haven Fairgrounds on Washington Avenue from 11:00am-3:00pm on Saturday, December 1st. Donate your new, unwrapped toy and the Marine Toys For Tots Foundation will distribute it to local children in need. Monetary donations will also be accepted.
New London Elks, 81 Washington Street, New London, CT
, 6320
Here is your chance to purchase a custom decorated tree and have it delivered to your home.
The Festivals of Trees is an event held for the past nine years by the Downtown New London Association (DNLA) and Neff Productions, to help raise money to feed needy families during the holiday season.
Here’s how it works: The DNLA provides live Christmas trees. Some themes from last year included: Vintage Maritime, Circus, Seashore and Peacock feathers. Then on December 1, 2012 we auction the decorated trees to the highest bidder. The DNLA will deliver the decorated Christmas trees to the winning bidders’ homes the next day.
Tickets for the event are $12. Tickets include Beer, Wine and light Hors d’oeuvres.
You can purchase tickets at GreenLight Boutique (66 Bank St, New London) or Bijou Salon & Spa (256 Boston Post Rd, Waterford)
Proceeds from the auction are donated to the New London Community Meal Center to provide holiday meals to local families. We also work with The Covenant Shelter and donate decorated Christmas trees to families who can’t afford to buy and decorate one.
The Stonington Community Center - COMO, 28 Cutler Street, Stonington, CT
, 06378
The winter Stonington Farmers Market is a continuation of the summer market. You'll find the best of Connecticut's small farms at our market. Bread, cheese, greenhouse veggies, poultry, eggs, beef, pork, lamb, winter fruit, jams, syrup, honey, soup, prepared meals and much more. Local crafts and musicians, too. The market makes a warm weekly winter destination to meet up with friends and neighbors and find the best local food available.
Stonington Community Center, 28 Cutler St., Stonington, CT
7 p.m., presenting "Diana Jones: Reindeer of the Lost Arc, The Christmas Skull, and the Search For the Holy Gruel"; 6:15 p.m., live pre-show music; to benefit local Social Service Agencies in providing holiday food baskets and basic services to families in need; $10 adults; $8 under age 12; day of show tickets are $12, $10; (860) 572-9285; snow date is Dec. 2
Salem Free Public Library, 264 Hartford Road, Salem, CT
3 p.m.; also included is a 1 p.m., shadow puppet theater show on the Sunken House of Gardner Lake presented by the Flock Theater of New London; reservations required for the Flock Theater presentation; (860) 859-1130.
First Congregational Church of Deep River, 1 Church St., Deep River, CT
8:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; (860) 526-5045 or email: office.drcc@snet.net.
Mystic & Noank Library, 40 Library Street, Mystic, CT , 06355
other holiday items; through Dec. 1; (860) 536-7721.
Downtown Ivoryton, , Ivoryton, CT
Family event featuring carol singing, cookie decorating, dancing Sugar Plum fairies, a Holiday Bazaar, and the lighting of Connecticut's tallest living Christmas tree at 6 p.m.
Stony Creek Congregational Church, 192 Thimble Islands Road, Stony Creek, CT , 06405
Christmas Book Sale - The Stony Creek Congregational Church will hold their Annual Christmas Book Sale on Saturday, December 1 from 11 - 3 pm. New and gently-used books in a variety of categories will be sold. In addition lunch will be served and there will be a "sweets" table. The event will be held in Fellowship Hall at the church, which is located directly across from the beach in Stony Creek at 192 Thimble Islands Road. Bring a friend or two, buy a book or twoenjoy lunch and support a worthy cause. All proceeds will go to the Branford Food Pantry and the Community Dining Room. For more information, please contact Ceil Alling at (203) 488-7827 or (203) 245-1289.
Salem Free Public Library, 264 Hartford Road, Salem, CT
to help stock the food pantry at Care and Share, a non-profit agency in East Lyme, The Salem Free Public Library is offering to forgive fines if patrons bring in unexpired, non-perishable canned goods to the library; call the library for the rules and for a list of immediate needs (860) 859-1130.
North Stonington Baptist Church, 5 Rocky Hollow Road, North Stonington, CT
10 a.m.-2 p.m., Grannys attic, crafts, baked goods and lunch available; (860) 535-0205.
First United Methodist Church, 23 Willow St., Mystic, CT
9 a.m.-2 p.m., cookie plates, bake sale, crafts, gift baskets, vintage linens, Rada cutlery, silent auction and homemade American Girl Doll clothes; luncheon from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; $6 adults, includes soup, sandwich, dessert and beverage; hanging of the greens at 2:30 p.m.
North Stonington Congregational Church, 89 Main Street, North Stonington, CT
lunch from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.; gifts, ornaments, Grandma's Attic, bake shoppe; (860) 889-1636.
Essex Village , Main Street , Essex, CT
, 06426
Unplug the Muzak, boycott the mall traffic and head to Essex Village for the Essex Board of Trade’s Annual Holiday Stroll, a quintessentially New England shopping experience.In addition to special savings and festive refreshments at participating shops and restaurants, free gift wrapping will be provided at Page Taft – Christies Real Estate with donations benefitting the Essex Community Fund. Free horse-drawn carriage rides through the heart of the village will be offered from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm while the Hilltop Barbershop Quartet will perform at various locations from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm. Then at 4:00 pm, the Grace Notes Handbell Choir will perform in front of the Griswold Inn, leading up to a performance by the Coast Guard Academy Idlers and tree lighting in Griswold Square at 4:45 pm.
Branford Compassion Club Feline Rescue and Adoption Center, 2037 Foxon Road, North Branford, CT
Meet adult cats available for adoption. Bring donations of canned and dry food.
Barry's Cleaners, 565 Colman Street, New London, CT , 06320
Barry's Cleaners is conducting a Winter Coat Drive to benefit New London school children. Coats are being collected through December 1, 2012 at any of our 3 locations: 565 Colman Street, New London; 308 Flanders Road, East Lyme; and 79 Pennsylvania Avenue, Niantic.
William Backus Hospital, 326 Washington St., Norwich, CT
1-3 p.m., Room 130; to learn about the group, call 1-800-842-1501, ext. 110.
Niantic Jazzercise, 11 Freedom Way, Niantic, CT
10 a.m., raffle of a complete Day of Beauty; The Spa of Essex and Niantic Jazzercise have joined forces for the months of October and November; ticket proceeds benefit the Connecticut Breast Cancer Health Initiative; (860) 767-7796 or (860) 739-5299.
Newent Congregational Church, Route 169, Lisbon, CT
9 a.m.-2 p.m., crafts, bake sale, raffle, silent auction; (860) 889-2346; for hall rental at the church call (860) 376-9153 or (860) 376-5133.
Smith Harris House, 33 Society Road, , CT
crafts, decorations, attic treasures; through Sun.; (860) 739-6746.
Walsh Intermediate School, 185 Damascus Road, Branford, CT
Minimum donation: $20. All proceeds benefit the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign.
Salem Free Public Library, 264 Hartford Road, Salem, CT
11 a.m., Salem kid in Major League Baseball, talks about his experiences; 1 p.m., Flock Theater of New London will perform a shadow puppet theater presentation on the "Sunken House of Gardner Lake"; 3 p.m., The Eight Mile River Bank will perform toe-tapping bluegrass music; must register for the 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. events; (860) 859-1130.
Old Mystic United Methodist Church, 44 Main St. (Rt. 27), Old Mystic, CT
9 a.m.-1 p.m., (860) 536-2171.
First Congregational Church of Deep River, 1 Church Street, Deep River, CT
Includes Dessert by Candlelight for $5 on Friday at 7 p.m.; Ye Olde English Christmas Faire on Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.; and the Festival of Christmas Music on Sunday at 6 p.m. Concert tickets: $10 ($5 for children aged 6 to 12; free for children under 6).
Groton Plaza, Route One , Groton, CT
The Groton Business Association of the Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce and Town & City of Groton invite you to participate in our annual Holiday Lights Parade in Groton, Route is US Route 1 - Start: South Road, End: Groton Shopping Plaza.
Join the thousands of people who view the parade each year.
After the parade join the community for hot chocolate, cookies, and other Hometown Holiday Festivities
City of Groton, Meridian Street, Groton, CT , 06340
We are pleased to announce the City of Groton Council Holiday Decorative Award contest for the 2012 Holiday Season. City of Groton residents can enter their home in the contest beginning December 1, 2012 submission deadline will be December 19, 2012. Entries will be accepted by sending an email to: holiday@cityofgroton.com. The submission should include First and Last Name, Address, and Phone Number. All entries will be reviewed by a committee in the evenings between December 20 and December 25. Awards will be presented for the Top 3 Winners at a future City Council meeting following the judging. Winners will be contacted at the phone numbers listed on their entries and posted on the City of Groton Government Facebook page.
Spa at the Norwich Inn, 607 West Thames St., Norwich, CT
11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., The Ledyard High School Carolers will provide entertainment; $30; (860) 889-6252 or email: mdokeefe@snet.net.
St. Lukes Church, Clark Lane & Route 12, Gales Ferry, CT
newcomers meeting 11:30-noon
Smith Harris House, 33 Society Road, Niantic, CT
— 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Smith-Harris House, 33 Society Road, East Lyme; festively decorated mid-1800’s home along with a sampling of holiday treats from Williamsburg recipes; through Dec. 2; lamplight tours start at 6:30 p.m. Saturday at half hour intervals for the performance of “The Christmas Adventures of Mr. C. Dickens”; $5 per person; tickets must be bought in advance noon-4 p.m. weekdays at the Smith-Harris House.
Education/Lectures
Art Gallery at the Mill House, 5 West Main Street, Chester, CT
, 06412
Paint a still life in natural light using the sight-size approach. Winter is almost here and its time to enjoy painting indoors. It's time for still lifes!
We will use our six hours to paint in natural light which will provide you with more natural colors and more subtle and softer transitions.
Sight-size helps to quickly establish scale and proportion through a direct comparison of your drawing and the model which leads you to make more accurate judgements about which lines, shapes, and values to render.
Instruction and guidance will be given as you progress and Drew will also paint a still life as a demonstration.
Come stay warm inside and use your creative energy! Contact Jennifer at the gallery to sign up.
Waterford Public Library, 49 Rope Ferry Road, Waterford, CT , 06385
on his new novel: GOTCHA!:the last days of the Bluefish
(ssn-645)
Mr. Baez, a longtime Waterford resident and a retired Navy Captain, will discuss his novel which focuses on Comm. Blair who is facing his final days as skipper of the Bluefish, scheduled to be decommissioned. Mr. Baez will also discuss his self-publishing experience. Copies of his book will be available for purchase and signing.
Waterford Public Library, 49 Rope Ferry Road, Waterford, CT , 06385
on his book Murder, New England
Think New England is all bucolic landscapes and Robert Frost poems? Think again. In Murder, New England, Phelps explores different motives, themes, and community reactions to horrific crimes, from 1673 to 2008. Author Phelps is the national bestselling, award-winning author of nineteen nonfiction books, a consultant of Showtime’s “Dexter” and star of the new Investigation Discovery show, “Dark Minds”. Winner of 2008 New England Book Festival Award for I’ll Be Watching You, Phelps—in addition to writing his hugely popular contemporary true-crime books—has written for the Providence Journal, Hartford Courant, New London Day. He is also the author of The Devil’s Rooming House and The Devil’s Right Hand. A question and answer period will follow the formal prese
Fairs/Festivals
Quaker Hill Baptist Church, 144 Old Norwich Road, Quaker Hill, CT , 06375
A Christmas Bazaar will be held Dec. 1, 10am-2pm at Quaker Hill Baptist Church, 144 Old Norwich Road, Quaker Hill, CT. Enjoy a delicious lunch. Purchase holiday wreaths, baked goods and crafts. You can also win prizes.
St. Bernadette School, 20 Burr Street, New Haven, CT
, 06512
Join us in at the St. Bernadette School Christmas Fair on:
Saturday, December 1st from 9-12 and Sunday, December 2nd from 10-2.
A variety of vendors for shopping, shopping, shopping!! Kid activities too, include a visit from Santa Clause on Saturday! Bring your letters to Santa to mail in the special North Pole Mailbox!
Are you a vendor looking for a holiday event? For a sign-up form or more information email us at: sbshome2012@gmail.com
First Church of Christ Congregational , E Main Street, Clinton, CT
Light Lunch: 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Aux 3 Pommes, 35 Boston Street, Guilford, CT
Arts and crafts by local artists.
Groton Inn and Suites, Gold Star Highway, Groton, , CT , 06340
hosted by Bishop Seabury Anglican Church
Crafters, Children's Corner, Bake Sale , “Baskets for Education”
First Congregational Church of Branford, 1009 Main Street, Branford, CT
First Congregational Church , 1009 Main Street, Branford, CT
Features homemade gifts, Christmas ornaments, a silent auction, jewelry, toys, books, homemade candy, baked goods, breakfast, and lunch.
The Wadsworth Mansion, 421 Wadsworth Street, Middletown, CT
Freewill donation: $2 (free for children).
Therese Church, 555 Middletown Avenue, North Haven, CT
Ridge Road Elementary School, 1341 Ridge Road, North Haven, CT
United Community Nursery School, 323 Temple Street, New Haven, CT
POQUONNOCK BRIDGE BAPTIST CHURCH, 1241 POQUONNOCK ROAD, GROTON, , 06340
Bakery, Jewelry, Grandma's Attic,Needlework and Crafts, Greenery, Books and Silent Auction, Special Raffle for a Hand Made Quilt and Luncheon
North Madison Congregational Church , 1271 Durham Road, Madison, CT
Features artisans, raffle, bistro, and more than 4,000 homemade cookies.
St. Mary's School Gym, 62 Cedar Street, Branford, CT
Glastonbury Riverfront Community Center, 300 Welles Road, Glastonbury, CT
, 06033
2012 Connecticut Farm & Energy Expo
Saturday December 1, 2012
10am-3pm
Glastonbury Riverfront Community Center
300 Welles Road, Glastonbury, CT 06033
Statewide Event
Energy & Agriculture Exhibitors, Interactive Displays for all ages, Eco friendly cars, Healthy Eating Specialist from Whole Foods Market, and Demos for the kids including alternative energy ice cream. Informative Sessions on the hour from 11am-2pm
Free Admission
All are Welcome!
Aux 3 Pommes, Language School, 35 Boston Street (Parking on the Guilford Green or behind our building), Guilford, CT
Featuring affordable art and crafts by local artists and artisans from all over CT:
Paintings Sculpture Jewelry Pottery Photography Prints Greeting Cards & much, much more
United Church of Chester, 29 W. Main Street, Chester, CT
St. Lawrence Church, 7 Hemlock Drive, Killingworth, CT
Live greenery wreaths, centerpieces, swags, homemade baked goods, handmade crafts, raffle, food, and silent auction.
St Joesh's Parish Center, 48 Middlesex Ave, Chester, CT
, 06412
Looking for unique gifts for that special person? Want to enjoy shopping with the whole family?
Known for the best on the shoreline St. Joseph’s Christmas Fair returns again this year with high-end crafts (jewelry, ornaments, clothing, knits, etc.), delicious homemade food and candies to eat in or take home, and glorious themed gift baskets and items for raffle and auction. We also have a special corner just for kids and family activities.
For more information, to volunteer or donate, contact Christine Conlon (585) 764-9985; conloncc@alum.rit.edu
Mark your calendar and see you there!
St. Andrew's Episcopal Church , 232 Durham Road, Madison, CT
Features more than a dozen booths, a café, and visits from Santa.
First Congregational Church, 1009 Main Street, Branford, CT
Features homemade gifts, Christmas ornaments, a silent auction, jewelry, toys, books, homemade candy, baked goods, breakfast, and lunch.
St. Vincent de Paul Church Hall, 80 Taylor Avenue, East Haven, CT
(Snow date: Dec. 2). Food, crafters, raffles, cakewalk, visit from Santa, and more.
St. Clare Church Parish Hall, 234 Coe Avenue, East Haven, CT
Features crafters, raffles, a kid’s area, food, a cookie walk, jewelry, books, and more.
Christ and the Epiphany Church, 39 Park Place, East Haven, CT
Old-fashioned Christmas fair features handcrafts, photos with Santa, and more.
St. Clare Church (Parish Hall), 234 Coe Avenue, East Haven, CT
First Congregational Church in Essex, UCC, 6 Methodist Hil, Essex, CT
Mount Saint John, 135 Kirtland Street, Deep River, CT
, 06417
Saturday December 1 - Crafters and Artisans wanted to display wares at the annual Mount Saint John Christmas Boutique in Deep River. 10am - 3pm. Live Entertainment by the MSJ Boys Choir and visits from Santa. There will be baked goods and a cafe by the school's Culinary Program! To reserve a table as a vendor please contact Vicki McKenney at 860.343.1340 or mckenneyv@mtstjohn.org
Kids/Family
Children's Museum, 409 Main St., Niantic, CT
Family Night — 4:30-8 p.m., Children’s Museum of Southeastern Connecticut, 409 Main St., Niantic; $1 per person; (860) 691-1111.
Connecticut River Museum, 67 Main Street, Essex, CT
, 06426
The family-friendly Holiday Train Show exhibit is back at the Connecticut River Museum in Essex for its nineteenth year of fun for all ages. Train artist Steve Cryan has worked his magic again with more trains, new scenery, and lots of surprises to be found in the fully operational 26-foot model train layout. Visitors are challenged to find a scavenger list of various objects hidden within the settings while the very young can get hands-on at the expanded American Flyer and Lionel train layout designed for toddler size viewing. The exhibit is a true locomotive extravaganza and a perfect outing for train fans and all who are young at heart. Sponsored by Liberty Bank, The Safety Zone and Valley Courier, the exhibit runs through February 10, 2013.
The Bill Memorial Library, 240 Monument St., Groton, CT
, 06340
The Bill Memorial Library will host a drop-in holiday craft program for kids on Saturday, December 1, 2012 from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. Children are invited to make holiday crafts to take home. This is a great opportunity for children to make special gifts for the adults in their life. Younger children will need an adult to help them with their projects. While you are here, check out our wonderful selection of holiday books! Call 860-445-0392 for more information.
The Bill Memorial Library is located at 240 Monument Street in Groton, near the Groton Monument and Fort Griswold. The library, now more than 100 years old, has an extensive collection of books and media for adults, teens and children. Visit their web page at billmemorial.org. or find us on Facebook at The Bill Memorial Library of Groton, CT.
Essex Town Hall Auditorium, , Essex, CT
Craft activities for children, letter writing to Santa, and light refreshments. Free. Pre-registration required.
Groton Public Library, 52 Newtown Road, Groton, CT
crafts, games and a performance by a quartet from the Concert Handbell Choir from St. Luke Lutheran Church; free; (860) 441-6750.
Otis Library, 261 Main St, Norwich, CT , 06360
ages 3 and up make a fun candy craft to mark the days until Santa arrives; free; (860) 889-2365
New England Science & Sailing (NESS), 70 Water Street, Stonington, CT
, 06378
Come on down and check out the weird and wonderful animals inhabiting our touch tanks. Explore the wacky invertebrates that live in your local waters, learn how they camouflage, catch their food and scare away predators. You will also have the opportunity to make your own crafty invertebrate. Class will be taught by one of our marine biologists.
Cost: $5/adult; $10/child age 11 and under; under 3 free
Tabor Lutheran Church, 45 Tabor Drive, Branford, CT
Cost: $10 ($8 for seniors and children).
Mashantucket Pequot Museum, 110 Pequot Trail , Ledyard, CT
free for children ages 12 and younger; two children per adult; can not be combined with other offers.
Mount St. John, 135 Kirtland Street, Deep River, CT
Crafts, wreaths, fresh-cut Christmas trees, bake sale, live holiday entertainment, visits with Santa, and lunch.
R.J. Julia Booksellers, 768 Boston Post Road, Madison, CT
This is the third annual Take Your Child to A Bookstore Day and what better way to spend it then making a fun afternoon out of it by coming to Winter Story time and Coloring!
There will be three story times at 12pm, 2pm, and 4pm plus all day coloring!
Mystic Aquarium, 55 Coogan Blvd., Mystic, CT
, 06355
Mystic Aquarium’s Winter Waterland holiday celebration returns Saturdays and Sundays in December and Thursday, Dec. 27 – Tuesday, Jan. 1 with festive entertainment for all to enjoy. This month-long series of events features visits from Santa, elves diving among fish, live music by local artists, seasonal crafts and scavenger hunts, all against a backdrop of fascinating marine animals and holiday décor.
Winter Waterland activities and entertainment take place Saturdays and Sundays in December (1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22 and 23) and December 27 - January 1 from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and are included with admission and membership.
Crystal Mall, 850 Hartford Turnpike, Waterford, CT , 06385
As the sights and sound of the holiday season begin to fill the air, Crystal Mall invites kids and their families to celebrate the joys of the season with festive and fun activities at Breakfast with Santa.
Kidgit members can join Santa for a lite breakfast in the food court. Other Activities include: Reindeer Masks, Ornaments, and Mixing Reindeer food!
Lyman Allyn Art Museum, 625 Williams St, New London, CT 06320, New London, CT , 06320
day of free activities designed for ages 5-12, including special project or movie ; (860) 443-2545, www.lymanallyn.org.